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Colds, the flu, Covid-19, stomach viruses, and other seasonal illnesses can sneak up on you without warning. When the misery hits and you realize you need to be seen by a doctor, where should you turn? While your family doctor is always an option, for fast convenient service when you need it most, urgent centers remain a fan favorite. If you've never visited an medical clinic before, continuing reading and consider some of the most compelling reasons to do so. That way the next time you are experiencing the discomfort and symptoms associated with a seasonal illness you can obtain quality care more quickly.

1.) Affordable Even Without Insurance

If you are uninsured, seeking treatment at an medical clinic facility is typically a much less expensive option than going to a hospital emergency room for care. Most centers accept major credit cards and offer cash discounts for non-insurance patients to make medical care more attainable for everyone. Additionally, if you do have insurance, most insurers allow policy holders to receive care at an medical clinic center. Most medical clinic centers accept a variety of different types of insurance. For more specific information about the coverages offered by your insurance plan, don't be afraid to reach out to your insurer to find out which centers will be covered and if any co-pays will apply prior to receiving services.

2.) Open Late and On Weekends

Medical clinic centers typically have extended hours to accommodate working individuals who may not have the luxury of taking time off work for a doctor's appointment. As such, medical clinic centers are usually open late into the evening and on the weekends, making it easier to receive the medical attention you need without having to re-arrange your work or school schedule. This is also helpful if you find yourself sick after typical business hours when your family physician is closed. Instead of suffering all weekend or being forced to go to the ER for something that really isn't an emergency, medical clinic can help!

3.) High Quality Care

Don't make the mistake of thinking medical clinic means subpar medical care. The reality is that medical clinic facilities staff highly trained and experienced physicians/nurses, so you can rest assured that you will be receiving top notch care for your illness. medical clinic centers are also equipped with all the necessary medical equipment and supplies to properly diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses, so you can get on the road to recovery in a jiffy.

4.) Quick Wait Times

When you're feeling ill, the last thing you want to do is sit in a waiting room for hours hoping to be seen. While most medical clinic centers provide walk-in services, they typically have much shorter wait times than visiting your local hospital's ER. Additionally, many centers now offer online scheduling, so if you prefer to wait at home until you can be seen, you won’t be stuck sitting in an uncomfortable waiting room chair when you are feeling your worst.

5.) More Personalized Care

In a hospital emergency room setting, the number of patients can be overwhelming. This means that you may not get the personalized attention you need, especially if your visit is not triaged as an emergency. With medical clinic, the environment is more relaxed and intimate. You can receive one-on-one care from a physician or nurse practitioner who will take the time to understand your needs and help you determine the best course of action.

6.) No Appointments Needed

Unlike family doctors, you don't need an appointment to be seen by a medical professional at an medical clinic center. This is perfect for those times when an illness comes on suddenly and there isn't time to make an appointment with your doctor. All you must do is walk in, check-in, and you will be seen in a reasonable amount of time. Thus, allowing you to get the quality medical treatment you need when you need it most.

7.) Treatment For Seasonal Illnesses

The flu, colds and other seasonal illnesses can be treated quickly and efficiently at an medical clinic center. They have the ability to prescribe medications to help reduce the symptoms of the illness and get you feeling better fast. That way you don't have to suffer through your cold or flu for days before you can be seen by your family doctor. Additionally, they also provide testing for seasonal illnesses like the flu, Covid-19, and RSV to ensure you are receiving the correct diagnosis and can provide proper documentation for work and day-care should you test positive for a communicable illness.

8.) Testing, Diagnosis, and Treatment All at One Location

medical clinic centers provide a wide variety of testing and diagnostic services, such as laboratory tests, x-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans. This makes the diagnosis of your illness much more efficient than having to run from one office to another just to get all the necessary tests done. Not only do you have access to testing on site, but they also provide treatment options for a variety of illnesses, so you can get back home to rest and recover more quickly.

9.) Preventative Care

medical clinic centers can provide preventative care services including physicals, vaccinations, and screenings that help keep you healthy all year round. Many centers offer special discounts for preventative care services like flu shots or other immunizations. Most medical insurance plans will also cover seasonal vaccines at your local care center. This is a great way to save money and stay healthy at the same time, so you can avoid a sick visit later in the season.

10.) Care For All Ages

Whether you're an adult or child, medical clinic centers provide the same level of quality care for everyone. They have experienced medical personnel on staff to treat a wide range of illnesses and injuries for all ages. Regardless of whether your child is typically seen at a pediatrician or a family practice, medical clinic can handle any seasonal illness that comes their way. Thus, you can rest assured that your entire family will receive the best possible care when they need it most!

In conclusion, there are many convincing reasons to receive medical care at your local medical clinic center the next time you feel yourself coming down with something. Even if you get sick late in the day or over the weekend, you can rest easy knowing you can get the quality medical care you need to get on the mend fast. Consider the many benefits of visiting an medical clinic center the next time you are ill, so you can choose medical clinic with confidence for all of your non-emergency medical needs!

At one time, getting sick required calling and making an appointment at your family doctor’s office, waiting until your appointment time, and then driving to the doctor's office. Upon arrival you had to drag your sick self into the office, where you would be stuck sitting in a waiting room, until a nurse called back to an exam room. Once in the exam room, you might wait some more until the doctor finally appeared to examine you. After all this trouble, you would finally be able to get a prescription and go home to rest.

Thankfully, due to modern advances in technology and the accessibility of healthcare in general, this isn't the only option the next time you begin feeling sick. In recent years, most medical practices have begun offering telehealth services, in addition to traditional appointments. While this technology may not be appropriate for every situation. There are many times when it could be an effective means of being seen without having to make the trek to your doctor’s office.

So, what is telehealth exactly? Basically, telehealth is a secure video call (or other form of online/virtual communication) that is specifically designed for medical use. It is typically part of an electronic medical record system that you can access online. It enables medical practitioners to schedule a "visit" with you from the comfort of your own home. Read on to learn more about telehealth, its benefits, and how it can help you get the medical care you need.

How Does it Work?

Telehealth is a form of healthcare delivery that uses technology to provide remote medical services. It allows patients to receive medical care from a distance, without having to physically visit a doctor's office or hospital. Telehealth includes video conferencing, phone calls, emails, and other forms of communication between patients and healthcare providers. This type of healthcare delivery is becoming increasingly popular, as it allows patients the convenience of visiting a doctor without ever leaving their house.

What Can Telehealth Be Used For?

Telehealth can be used for a variety of medical services, including diagnosis and treatment of illnesses, mental health counseling, physical therapy, and more. It also allows for remote monitoring of chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for those who live in rural areas, as it eliminates the need to travel long distances for medical care.

What Are the Benefits of Telehealth?

Telehealth offers a number of benefits for both patients and healthcare providers. Consider them below:

1.) Flexibility & Convenience

Telehealth offers flexibility for both patients and healthcare providers. Patients can access medical care from the comfort of their own home, without having to take time off work or arrange transportation/childcare. Healthcare providers can also offer services to a wider range of patients, as they don't have to be physically present in the same location.

2.) Cost Savings

Telehealth can help reduce costs for both patients and healthcare providers. Patients can save money on transportation costs and time off work, while healthcare providers can reduce overhead costs associated with running a physical office.

3.) Improved Access to Care

Telehealth can help improve access to care for those who live in rural or underserved areas. It also allows patients to receive medical care more quickly, as they don't have to wait for days on an appointment or travel to a doctor's office.

4.) Improved Quality of Care

Telehealth can help improve the quality-of-care patients receive, as healthcare providers can monitor their progress remotely and provide timely interventions when needed.

5.) Increased Privacy and Comfort

Telehealth also offers increased privacy and comfort for patients, as they can receive medical care without ever leaving their own home. This can be especially beneficial for those who are uncomfortable discussing sensitive topics in a public setting or who may struggle with complex medical or mental health conditions that make it difficult or impossible to leave their home.

6.) Eliminate Wait Times

Telehealth can also help reduce wait times for patients, as they don't have to wait in line at a doctor's office or hospital. This can be especially beneficial for those who need urgent care or are dealing with chronic conditions that require frequent monitoring.

7.) Prevents Healthy Patients from Being Exposed to Sick Ones

Telehealth can also help prevent healthy patients from being exposed to sick ones, as they don't have to physically visit a doctor's office or hospital. This can be especially beneficial for those with weakened immune systems or those who are at risk of contracting contagious illnesses. It is also beneficial for those who need to quarantine due to Covid, Chicken Pox, or some other highly contagious illness. This allows for patients to be seen and receive the necessary medical treatment, without putting anyone else at risk of contracting the illness.

Are There Situations When Telehealth Should Not Be Used?

Yes, there are certain situations when telehealth should not be used. For example, if a patient is experiencing an emergency medical situation, they should seek immediate in-person care at a hospital or urgent care center. Additionally, telehealth may not be suitable for certain types of medical procedures that require hands-on physical examination or treatment. Finally, it is important to note that telehealth is not a total substitute for in-person care and should only be used in combination with traditional medical care. Telehealth is a wonderful part of a comprehensive medical care plan, when utilized as intended.

Does Medical Insurance Cover Telehealth Visits?

Yes, many medical insurance plans now cover telehealth visits. However, it is important to check with your specific insurance provider to determine what types of services are covered and if there are any restrictions or limitations. Furthermore, some providers may require pre-authorization for certain services before they will be covered by insurance. Also be aware that some telehealth services may not be covered by insurance at all, so you should ALWAYS check with your insurer before scheduling a telehealth visit to ensure you have coverage for services rendered.

Are Telehealth Visits Secure?

Yes, telehealth visits are secure. Most telehealth platforms use encryption technology to ensure that all patient data is kept safe and secure. Furthermore, many telehealth providers also have additional security measures in place to protect patient privacy and ensure HIPAA compliance. It is important to check with your specific provider to make sure they have the necessary security protocols in place before scheduling a telehealth visit.

The Bottom Line

Telehealth is a great way to access medical care without having to physically visit a doctor's office or hospital. It can be especially beneficial for those with weakened immune systems, those who need to quarantine due to Covid or other highly contagious illnesses, and those who are dealing with chronic conditions that require frequent monitoring. So, the next time you find yourself having a sick day, consider if telehealth could be the right choice as part of your comprehensive healthcare plan!

Physical therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions and injuries. With the right treatment modalities, physical therapy can often bring pain relief and healing, allowing patients to forego more invasive measures such as surgery. One reason patients frequently seek the expertise of a physical therapist is for the treatment of persistent, reoccurring headaches. The reality is that there is often an underlying cause like Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ/TMD) behind the symptoms a patient is experiencing. Thankfully, since physical therapy can be tailored to address specific conditions and injuries it can be used to successfully treat TMD, as well as a variety of other issues. If you are considering physical therapy to address headaches or other problematic symptoms, you may be interested in exactly how TMJ physical therapy works. Read on to have your most frequently asked questions about TMJ physical therapy addressed, so you can get started with the right treatment plan ASAP!

What Is Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD/TMJ) is a condition that affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. Statistically speaking, as much as 33% of the population will be plagued with symptoms of TMD sometime during their lifetime. The TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skull and its primary function is to facilitate basic movements of the mouth, such as chewing, speaking, opening/closing, and yawning. If the joint or its muscles are harmed it can cause pain, soreness, stiffness, headaches, and other problematic symptoms. TMD may also occur due to a misaligned disk or cartilage deterioration. Ultimately, it is important to be aware that while this condition is quite common, it is not normal, and the resulting pain should not be ignored.

What Symptoms Are Caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

The symptoms of TMD vary from person to person and can be wide-ranging. However, common symptoms associated with TMD include pain or tenderness in the face, neck, jaw joint, shoulder, and/or around the ear, pain when biting/chewing, facial swelling, and headaches/migraines. Additionally, those with TMD may experience a popping or clicking sound when opening their mouth or issues with the jaw locking when opening/closing their mouth. There may also be a feeling of tightness in the jaw, restricted movement, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Thus, should you experience one or multiple symptoms of TMD it could be beneficial to visit a physical therapist for an evaluation.

How Can Physical Therapy Help Treat Temporomandibular Joint Disorder?

In many cases, physical therapy is an excellent option to treat TMD and provides patients with much-needed relief from persistent pain or symptoms associated with this condition. A physical therapist can create a customized plan that incorporates various treatments, such as manual therapies, patient education, exercise plans, and self-care programs. These treatments are designed to help improve mobility in the joint, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain, so patients can get their quality of life back.

What Treatment Modalities Are Used in TMJ Physical Therapy?

TMJ physical therapy is tailored to the needs of each individual patient and therefore can vary significantly from person to person. Generally speaking, treatment modalities used in TMJ physical therapy may include a range of manual therapies, such as massage and joint mobilizations, therapeutic exercises to improve the range of motion in the jaw and neck muscles, posture correction to optimize alignment throughout the entire body, self-care education on proper sleeping and eating habits, and strengthening exercises to help stabilize the TMJ. Other treatment options may include myofascial release, ultrasound, trigger point dry needling, and soft tissue mobilization. Ultimately, the goal of all treatment modalities is to reduce pain and tension in the jaw joint and its surrounding muscles, improve the movement of the mouth, reduce inflammation, improve posture, increase the flexibility and strength of the neck muscles, and promote overall healing to improve the quality of life for the patient.

Will TMJ Physical Therapy Cure My TMJ?

While physical therapy can often help to reduce pain and other symptoms associated with TMJ, it is important to understand that it cannot necessarily “cure” the condition itself. The primary goal of physical therapy is to help relieve the symptoms of the condition and improve overall function, so you can return to your daily activities with minimal discomfort. Typically, most patients can expect to experience a reduction in their symptoms after just a few sessions. Many patients report significant improvement including an improved range of motion within the jaw joint and neck area, decreased pain and soreness in the face/neck/jaw region, improved posture, and a greater overall awareness of their body. Ultimately, while the results of TMJ physical therapy may vary from person to person, it is a safe and effective way to address this condition without resorting to more invasive measures like surgery.

Are There Any Special Considerations To Keep In Mind When Seeking Treatment For TMD?

Yes! It is important to note that many of the same techniques used to treat TMD can also be utilized for other conditions, such as headaches and neck pain. Therefore, it is important to consult with a physical therapist who specializes in treating TMD  to ensure that you receive the correct diagnosis and the right treatment plan. Additionally, make sure that your physical therapist is aware of any preexisting medical conditions you have been diagnosed with any medications or supplements you are currently taking as these factors may affect how sessions are conducted.

Why Should I Consider Physical Therapy for TMD?

Physical therapy is an excellent option to treat TMD due to its non-invasive and holistic approach. Through TMJ physical therapy, you can expect a significant improvement or complete mitigation of the symptoms associated with TMD. Moreover, since physical therapy can lessen or completely mitigate the pain caused by this condition, you will experience freedom from dependence on pain medications. Lastly, physical therapy can help to reduce stress and anxiety associated with TMD and chronic pain, further improving your mental health and physical well-being. Simply put, you have nothing to lose other than chronic pain, jaw dysfunction, or costly surgery. Consider if visiting a physical therapist trained in TMJ treatment could be the right step to take in your health journey!

The Zonta Foothills Club of Boulder County along with the Zonta Foothills Foundation (https://www.zontafoothills.org/) are proud to announce the winners of the Jane M. Klausman Women in Business Scholarships.

Zonta International's JMK Women in Business Scholarship is available to women pursuing undergraduate and master's degrees in business management. It aims to help women overcome gender barriers, from the classroom to the boardroom and is directed toward women pursuing degrees in business leading to a business management career.

Lauren Hanley will receive our club’s $2,000 award and go on to compete with other club winners at the District 12 level. Lauren is a recent CU Boulder graduate with a degree in International Affairs and a minor in Leadership Studies. She is pursuing her master’s in Business Analytics at the Leeds School of Business.

Second-place winner is Trisha Tyagi, a rising junior at CU Boulder, planning to pursue her MBA and work in the private equity sector. She is President of the Leeds Student Government (LSG) at the Leeds School of Business. Trisha will receive a $2,000 award from Zonta.

Third-place award winner, Erin Johnson, will receive a $900 scholarship. Erin is an MBA candidate at the University of Colorado Boulder. She is also a Graduate Intern at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

Zonta Foothills Club's advocacy work and scholarships are focused on making the world a better place for women and girls. 

If you find yourself in need of medical care, but you don't have insurance, you may be wondering what to do. As the popularity of urgent care centers continue to increase, you may wonder if this could be an option in getting the care you need if you don't have medical insurance. Sadly, many Americans find themselves in this situation; however, the good news is you can be seen at an urgent care clinic with or without medical insurance. Although, if you don’t have insurance, you should expect to pay out of pocket for services rendered, typically at the time of service. Despite this, most facilities offer reasonable prices for those paying out of pocket. Don't go another day suffering because you don't have insurance, urgent care is waiting to meet your medical needs at an affordable price!

What Is Urgent Care?

Urgent care is an alternative to the emergency room for those seeking medical attention for routine illnesses, injuries, cuts, burns, broken bones, seasonal illnesses, Covid/Flu testing, and vaccinations. Urgent care centers are typically open late into the evening and throughout weekends, making them a great choice for those who are unable to seek care during regular doctor's office hours. They also offer convenience since they don't require you to make an appointment prior to being seen. These clinics have steadily gained popularity due to the convenience and wide range of services they provide at an affordable price.

If I Don't Have Medical Insurance, Is It Better for Me to Visit The ER Instead of Urgent Care?

Unless you have a true emergency, it is better to visit urgent care than the ER if you don't have insurance. The reality is that urgent care offers medical care at a much lower cost than an ER can. Thus, if you are dealing with a cold, the flu, a minor injury, broken bone, allergic reaction, or animal bite, it simply makes more sense for your wallet to visit an urgent care center. Additionally, this is also beneficial for those who are at the ER for a true emergency, as it prevents the hospital from becoming overwhelmed with patients and helps ensure that those who have critical emergencies receive the care they need more quickly. However, with that said, should you experience symptoms of a heart attack, stroke, shock, trauma, burns, etc., you will need to be seen at your nearest emergency room, in order to receive appropriate care. Ultimately, whenever determining where you should be seen, take a minute to consider if you are in need of emergency or non-emergency care. Then the choice should be simple, allowing you to get the care you need at the most affordable price.

Is There Any Help Available?

While the policies of various clinics will differ, most urgent care centers offer a discount for those who do not have health insurance, so you can receive affordable medical care. Additionally, some clinics offer payment plans, so you can receive care now without the burden of paying in full for medical services. It may also be helpful to call ahead to check on the policy of the center you are planning on visiting. That way you will be aware of the costs before you arrive and will have the opportunity to price around with other urgent care centers in your area to find the most affordable care. Lastly, be sure to make your doctor aware that you don't have medical insurance. This can ensure the doctor works with you to give you the most affordable treatment possible without compromising on your care and prescribes generic medications which will be far more affordable if you lack insurance coverage.

What Services Do Urgent Care Centers Offer?

It is important to note that regardless of whether you have insurance or not, urgent care centers offer a variety of services. From physicals and wellness exams to injuries and illnesses, urgent care centers can help meet most of your medical needs. Many also provide on-site lab work and digital X-rays, so you can receive a quick diagnosis and start treatment if necessary. Thus, if you find yourself in need of non-emergency medical care, your local urgent care can help. Don’t let a lack of insurance stop you from getting the medical attention you require; visit your local urgent care center for prompt, quality care when you need it most!

If I Become Insured Later, Can I Still Receive Treatment at An Urgent Care Center?

Yes, you can still receive treatment at an urgent care center if you become insured later. Most urgent care centers are willing to work with you and your plan to provide quality and affordable medical care. Generally speaking, insurance plans will cover the majority of services offered by your local facility, but in some cases, it may be more cost-effective to pay out-of-pocket for certain services. However, just like traditional medical offices, different clinics may or may not accept certain insurances. Thus, it is important to contact the center you are considering to ask about what insurances they accept. That way you won't receive any surprises later on. It is also important to stay up to date on your policy's copay and deductible amounts, as they can differ from plan to plan. If you have questions about whether your insurance will cover services at an urgent care or what co-pays to expect, contact your insurance company to have all your questions answered prior to seeking medical services.

What Are the Benefits of Visiting an Urgent Care Center?

Visiting an urgent care center offers a number of benefits for those who don’t have medical insurance. Most importantly, it can provide patients with access to quality medical care at an affordable cost. Unlike emergency rooms, urgent care centers typically do not require long wait times and are open extended hours, so you don't spend hours waiting when you are sick or in pain. This allows you to get medical attention when it is most convenient for you without fear of cost. Additionally, most urgent care centers are staffed with board-certified physicians who specialize in family medicine and are qualified to give you the medical care you need without the price tag associated with the ER. Thus, if you don't have medical insurance, visiting an urgent care center is a great option for receiving quality and affordable medical treatment after hours or on the weekends.

Everyone deserves the dignity of medical care. Don't let a lack of health insurance prevent you from receiving medical treatment. With urgent care, quality affordable care is attainable for all. Consider if urgent care could be right for you!

About the Author

Mr. Cerullo is a native New Yorker transplanted to Colorado in 1996. He received a Bachelors in Biology from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, N.Y.) and Masters in Health Sciences from George Washington University (Washington D.C..).

When hearing the word incontinence, do you automatically think of a pregnant woman or the elderly? While these populations commonly suffer from this condition, did you know that children can also be susceptible to improper voiding due to muscular dysfunction, resulting in incontinence, UTIs, frustration, and embarrassment? If your child is suffering from this condition, there is hope. Read on to learn more about pediatric pelvic floor therapy, so you are equipped with the information necessary to get your child the treatment he or she needs. Don't go another day watching your child suffer from a completely treatable condition. Rather regain their confidence and freedom to enjoy life without fear of incontinence!

What Are the Symptoms of Pediatric Incontinence?

Symptoms of pediatric incontinence include recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), urgency and frequency of urination, inability to recognize bladder fullness, failure to urinate a normal amount throughout the day, constipation, abdominal pain and/or discomfort, leaking urine while awake or bedwetting when asleep, and/or straining to urinate or defecate. It is also important to note that children who suffer from these symptoms may also experience emotional distress such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression as a result of the negative impacts these symptoms may have on their life.

What Causes Pediatric Incontinence?

The cause of pediatric incontinence is not always known but there are several contributing factors that can include: muscular dysfunction, birth trauma, constipation, low bladder capacity, neurological deficits, emotional issues, or stress. Regardless of the initial cause, pediatric incontinence is typically related to a dysfunction in the child's pelvic floor muscles. When these muscles are unable to function properly in correlation with the function of the bladder, abnormal voiding of the bladder or bowels is the result. Whenever this pattern becomes ingrained, the muscles become weakened and no longer allow for the bladder and/or bowels to fully empty, leading to a host of problems. It's important to remember that the underlying cause of the child's symptoms can differ from patient to patient, making it important for parents and caretakers to work closely with their child's physician to ensure that proper diagnosis and treatment is received.

What Is Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy and How Does It Work?

Pediatric pelvic floor therapy is a specialized type of physical therapy administered by trained pediatric physical therapists to help mitigate bladder or bowel incontinence, developmental issues, or injury in children. Through the use of these therapies, patients should expect increased movement, muscle strength, and flexibility. Ultimately, these highly educated and compassionate professionals work with children and their caregivers to properly diagnose the underlying cause of the symptoms and effectively treat them to achieve more than mere symptom reduction but rather lasting healing.

While each child will be treated as an individual and a specific treatment plan will be developed just for them, there are several commonly used treatments to address pediatric incontinence. These include rehabilitative ultrasound, a bladder schedule to form positive habits, neuromuscular re-education, pelvic floor muscle visual evaluation/treatment, therapeutic ultrasound, cold laser, at home exercise plan, and patient education. When tailored to your unique child and the causes behind their incontinence, pediatric pelvic floor therapy can help your child regain their confidence and quality of life!

Is Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy Invasive?

Pediatric pelvic floor therapy is a non-invasive, holistic approach to treating pediatric incontinence. During the diagnostic phase, the child will not be subjected to a vaginal or rectal exam. Instead, information will be gained by conducting a visual inspection of the perineum by the therapist with the presence of the parent. The therapist will observe if there is redness or irritation present from soiled undergarments, whether the child has a normal sensation/reflex of the anus when a gentle touch is applied, and whether the child is aware of how to properly contract the muscles of their pelvic floor. While the treatment plan will require diligence, it should not feel invasive or painful during the evaluation or the implementation of the treatment plan.

How Long Will My Child Have to Attend Pelvic Floor Therapy?

While every patient is an individual, generally speaking most children are able to attain daytime continence within 6-8 sessions. For those also suffering from overnight incontinence, the process may take longer.

How Often Will My Child Need to Attend Therapy Sessions?

As a rule of thumb, most pediatric therapy will last for approximately 60 minutes per session. Therapists typically want to see the patient every other week at the start of therapy and then increase the time between visits to every 3-4 weeks as the patient begins to show improvement. However, for the most accurate information, always check with your child's therapist to determine the treatment plan that is right for you.

What Are the Benefits of Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pediatric pelvic floor therapy can provide a number of important health benefits to children. Firstly, it can help to improve bladder and bowel control, lessen the chances of recurrent UTIs, and improve overall bladder capacity. Secondly, it can help to reduce constipation by strengthening abdominal muscles which are essential for healthy digestive functioning. Thirdly, it can help to improve muscle and joint flexibility and coordination, both of which are essential for healthy movement. Lastly, pediatric pelvic floor therapy can help to reduce anxiety, boost confidence, and improve the child's quality of life making it well-worth spending a few short weeks engaging in pediatric pelvic floor therapy for your child.

Does Insurance Cover Pediatric Pelvic Floor Therapy?

In most cases, insurance plans offer at least some coverage for pediatric pelvic floor therapy. However, these coverages will depend on the specific plan and policy of the insurer. Typically, most insurers cover physical therapy treatments for conditions that are considered medically necessary. Therefore, it is best to check with your insurer prior to beginning any pelvic floor therapy routine to ensure that your child's treatment is covered. It is also important to note that individual therapies may have different coverage levels, so it is best to discuss your options with your health care provider before beginning any therapy and contact your insurance company for questions regarding specific coverages.

In conclusion, issues of incontinence can be problematic to the health and well-being of those of all ages, including children. After learning more about pediatric physical therapy for incontinence, don't let your child suffer one more day. Get them the treatment they need for better health and a better life!

If you find yourself in need of medical care, it may be difficult to know where to start. With urgent care clinics, family medicine, emergency rooms, and specialist doctors to choose from, getting the care you need may seem overwhelming. One important branch of the medical system is primary care doctors, often known as family doctors. While all parts of the medical system work together to offer the most comprehensive care, there is simply no replacement for a primary care physician. Read on to learn more about family medicine and have some of your most common questions answered, so you can obtain the care you need when you need it most.

What Is a Primary Care/Family Physician?

Primary care physicians or family doctors are a crucial element in maintaining your overall wellness, getting treatment for seasonal illness, and managing any chronic conditions you may have. These physicians are a catchall for everything from seasonal allergies, to yearly physicals, or even chronic conditions like diabetes. They have a broad scope of practice and are particularly good at providing preventive care, treating illness, and managing chronic illnesses. They also have the ability to refer patients for specialized care whenever necessary.

Primary care physicians build lifelong relationships with their patients and help them to live healthy lifestyles over the years. These physicians are equipped to address the physical, mental, and emotional health of their patients. As a matter of fact, physicians screen for abuse, mental health conditions, and obtain information about the patient’s current lifestyle. Family doctors come alongside their patients to ensure they have a plan to live a healthy lifestyle and are equipped to make changes whenever necessary so they can enjoy life to the fullest. Ultimately, a primary care doctor is one of the most critical aspects of comprehensive healthcare.

What Types of Medical Care Do Primary Care Physicians Offer?

Primary care doctors treat a wide range of conditions and provide many healthcare services. They are equipped to manage chronic conditions, advise patients on wellness plans to prevent chronic conditions, and treat a wide range of illnesses, injuries, and infections. Whenever necessary, your primary care physician can diagnose and refer you to a specialty practitioner who will also play an important role in the management/treatment of certain conditions. Primary care doctors typically provide services such as preventative care, pediatrics, yearly physicals, well visits, vaccinations, women's health services, behavioral health, long-term management of chronic conditions, sports medicine, lab work, diagnosis and treatment of conditions, treatment of seasonal illnesses, weight loss management and nutritional assistance, and screenings for dementia, cholesterol, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes and more. Ultimately, primary care doctors offer an expansive range of health services and can help you get the care you need when you need it!

What Are the Benefits of Having A Primary Care/Family Physician?

There are many great benefits that come with having your own family doctor. Consider these below:

1.) They Are Familiar with Your Conditions - Your family doctor knows your medical history, allowing them to provide the best care possible for you.

2.) They Can Refer You to Specialists When Necessary - If your health needs require specialized care, your family doctor can refer you to the right provider. Not only is this often necessary due to insurance requirements, but it also alleviates the stress of trying to find the right provider to handle your condition.

3.) They Can Help You Live a Healthy Lifestyle - Your family doctor can assist you in making healthy decisions and provide guidance on how to live a healthy lifestyle, helping you to avoid the onset of preventable diseases for a fuller lifespan.

4.) They Offer a Wide Range of Services - Your family doctor can offer a wide range of services, including screening and prevention, wellness advice, chronic condition management, and more. Having a regular primary care doctor helps ensure you get quality care, regardless of your medical needs.  

5.) Prescriptions and Refills - Having an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician helps ensure you are prescribed the medication you need and are able to obtain refills when necessary.

A quality family doctor is worth his or her weight in gold, helping you and yours to maintain peak health all throughout the year.

Do Family Doctors Accept Medical Insurance?

Yes, most family doctors accept medical insurance, although depending upon your specific insurance plan there may be a small co-pay or deductible required. The majority of pediatricians and specialists also accept insurance. Despite this, it is important to ask your doctor what insurance plans they accept prior to making your first appointment, so you don't find yourself with a surprise bill later.

Why Is Having a Primary Care Doctor Important?

Having an ongoing relationship with your primary care doctor is important to your health and well-being. While medical clinic are a helpful part of today's medical care system, they absolutely are not meant to replace the role of primary care doctors. While they can provide quick, convenient services (after hours or on weekends), if you become sick or injured, they are not meant to manage chronic conditions. Moreover, primary care doctors know your full medical history, including your family history, so they can help you prevent the onset of diseases, manage chronic conditions, and ensure you don't have medication interactions. The long-term relationship you form with a family physician simply cannot be replicated by the quick in and out culture of medical clinics.

What Information Should I Bring with Me To An Appointment With A Primary Care Physician?

When arriving at an appointment with your primary care physician you may be asked to provide the documentation listed below:

1.) Identification - Most medical offices will require you to bring identification with you to your appointment, such as your driver's license, military ID, state ID, or passport to verify you are the patient. 

2.) Insurance Information - If you have health insurance, it will be important to bring your card with you when you come in for your appointment. Additionally, be sure to bring along any co-pays that are due at the time of service.

3.) Bring a List of Medications - It is important that your doctor is aware of all prescription medications, over the counter medications, vitamins, and supplements that you take on a regular basis to avoid drug interactions or overdoses.

Providing the correct documentation will expedite the process of seeing your doctor and will ensure your medical history is correct and up to date.

In conclusion, the right primary care doctor is a critical part of maintaining good health throughout the lifespan. With this in mind, don't neglect your health a day longer. Find a primary care physician that you trust and take back your health!

There are many viruses that circulate throughout the year. In 2020, Covid-19 arrived and seems to be here to stay. Just when one variant slows down, another one is quick to pop up and take its place. Thus, if you begin to experience symptoms of the latest Covid-19 strain, you may be wondering if urgent care is able to test, provide flu shot, and treat you for the virus. Urgent care centers are equipped and ready to offer the testing you need to determine if you are sick with Covid-19, the flu, RSV, or even the common cold. Urgent care centers are there to help you will all sickness, including seasonal illnesses, so you are able to get the testing and treatment you need in a jiffy! Read on to learn more about urgent care centers, so you can choose this form of medical treatment, with confidence the next time you find yourself under the weather.

Do I Need to Make an Appointment to Be Seen at An Urgent Care Center?

No, one of the most attractive benefits of choosing urgent care for your health care needs is that they offer quick, convenient services without the need for an appointment. Despite this, if you wish to secure a specific time, many facilities now offer online scheduling, so you can arrive and be seen more quickly when you are feeling your worst. Take note that if you are experiencing the symptoms of Covid-19, your local urgent care may have special protocols to follow when you are seen. As such, be sure to phone ahead and ask how they will proceed with your visit. Many facilities will choose to have you wait in your vehicle until they are ready to see you. That way staff and other patients can be shielded from unnecessary exposure to the virus.

Why Is Urgent Care Such a Popular Choice for Those Experiencing Covid-19 Symptoms?

There are quite a few reasons people love the services offered by urgent care centers, but this love has steadily grown since Covid-19 first made its appearance several years ago. Simply put, patients love the accessibility of testing and treatment without the need to jump through hoops. Due to restrictions placed on day care centers, schools, and other professions, it is important that people can obtain the answers they need in a hurry. Urgent care centers offer fast, reliable, testing so patients have a definitive answer as to whether they have Covid-19 or not. Better yet, if a patient finds they have something else like the flu, RSV, or some other seasonal illness, urgent care can still offer testing in most cases, as well as appropriate treatment options, to promote a quicker recovery.

What Are the Benefits of Choosing Urgent Care for Covid-19 Testing?

There are many great reasons to utilize an urgent care center if you begin experiencing symptoms of Covid-19. Consider these below:

• Better Hours - Covid-19, as well as other seasonal illnesses, typically arrive quickly and without warning. In years past, if you began to feel sick during the evening or on the weekend, your only option was to wait until your family doctor was open again or to visit the emergency room for something that wasn't actually an emergency. Now, with Urgent Care centers being an option, you can get the testing and treatment you need when you need it, since they offer extended hours that include both nights and weekends.
• Affordable - Urgent care centers are also attractive for those who lack insurance as they are often a more affordable option for receiving medical care than paying out of pocket to a family doctor or the ER.
• Convenience - As was aforementioned, since urgent care facilities offer walk-in appointments, you can go be seen whenever it best suits your schedule. Better yet, you can get the Covid-19 testing you need on demand, instead of waiting for an appointment at your primary care doctor or local pharmacy.
• Speed - Perhaps one of the best reasons to visit an urgent care center (if you are feeling sick) is for the speed at which you can be seen. Since many centers offer walk-in appointments, you are able to get in and out quickly, so you can begin receiving treatment as soon as possible. As such, if your symptoms appear to be related to Covid-19, you will be able to get tested and begin the appropriate treatment regimen much quicker than if you had chosen to wait on a regular doctor's appointment.
• Comprehensive Care - When you visit an urgent care center, you are, not only able to be tested for Covid-19, but you are also able to receive other services that may be applicable to your case. For example, if you have been exhibiting signs of illness, the staff at the facility can conduct a physical exam and check your vitals to determine if there may be any other underlying issues present or if your case is severe enough to warrant a trip to the emergency room. They can also provide treatment for other existing ailments, such as allergies or asthma, that may be exacerbating your condition. Thus, regardless of what you are dealing with, urgent care will see to it that you get the diagnosis, testing, and care you need when you need it most!

I Suspect I'm Sick with Covid-19, When Should I Visit the ER Rather Than Urgent Care?

While urgent care centers are equipped to provide testing and routine treatment for Covid-19 and other illnesses, it is important to remember that they are NOT able to provide emergency care and do NOT take the place of ER's. With this in mind, if you are exhibiting symptoms of Covid-19 and are experiencing difficulty breathing or are showing other signs of an emergency situation, you should seek care at the nearest emergency room right away.

However, for those with milder symptoms, an urgent care center may be the best option for testing and treatment. Simply put, urgent care centers can provide comprehensive services including physical examinations, diagnostic tests, and prescriptions all at one place in a timely manner. Henceforth, if you are not experiencing any life threatening symptoms but still feel unwell due to Covid-19 or another illness, you can get the answers and treatment you need without having to wait for an appointment or risk exposing yourself to other patients in the ER.

In conclusion, urgent care centers are an excellent option for those who need testing and treatment for Covid-19, as well as other illnesses. These facilities offer extended hours, walk-in appointments, affordable prices, and comprehensive care that can get you the answers and help you need quickly. However, if you are experiencing signs of an emergency situation due to Covid-19 or any other illness, it is best to go directly to the nearest emergency room or dial 911 for immediate medical attention. So, what are you waiting for? Consider if choosing urgent care for your next bout with illness could be the right choice for you!